Earning our JRPG black belt - Let's Play Legend of Legaia!

For either: ↑→↓↑

For Blue: →↓→↓
For Ruby: →↓→↓→↓

Also, do you think you could edit the first post to show what the successful combinations are for the learned arts?

Sure! I'll get on that posthaste. I'm not sure why I didn't do that sooner, actually.

Hello, all. I would've updated this on Monday, but, well...

I had some video troubles. Apparently, the free version of Fraps won't let me record videos longer than thirty seconds (which the website doesn't mention anywhere, by the way), so I had to hunt down another program. I found one called Gregion, and it gets the job done, but videos I record with it kind of look like shit compared to ones recorded by Fraps. Until I can get this sorted out, some of the videos for this LP will look worse than others; nothing I can do about it for now. If anyone knows of a free recording program that doesn't totally suck, I'd appreciate it if you'd nudge me in the right direction.

But enough of all that nonsense; you came to this thread for updates (at least I hope), so updates you shall receive!

Chapter 4: Battle Atop Mt. Rikuroa



♪♪Barren Fields of Mist♪♪

Mt. Rikuroa is a short walk from Snowdrift Cave - you'll get into maybe one battle at most. There aren't any new enemies in this area; you'll encounter what Blue did on his way to Drake Castle, but that's it.



♪♪Perilous Mountain♪♪

It's going to be a long walk to the summit, so let's get underway.



♪♪Brand of the Holy Knuckles (Ver. 2)♪♪

Right away, we encounter new enemies. The Pump Bat on the left is slightly troublesome, being immune to Low attacks, but Dolphin Attack takes care of it nicely. It can do quite a bit of damage if you aren't careful, however; its Windcutter attack does around 85 damage without Spirit protection. The Worm on the right only headbutts you, for maybe 30 damage or so; not really a concern.



None of you guys were able to help Ruby learn an Art this time, so I'll give her another one.



Acrobatic Blitz, learned by inputting ↑ ↓ ↓, is sort of a reverse Somersault.



This battle also takes Ruby to level 4. You'll want her to at least be level 5 by the time you reach the top of the mountain, but you should get there without any grinding as long as you don't run from any battles on the way up.



The next battle pits us against the Vera, the first Light Seru you'll encounter. When absorbed, Light Seru act as the game's healing magic - but since Ruby doesn't have a Ra-Seru, we don't have to worry about absorbing it at the moment. Still, Vera are quite dangerous - aside from being immune to Low attacks, it can also use Bloodsucker, dealing 25 damage or so and healing itself in the process (at least I think). You'll want to take them out first when you encounter them.



♪♪Perilous Mountain♪♪

Sweet! There are a few more goodies in this place, but we'll get to that in a minute.



The next section of Mt. Rikuroa is a strangely green cave. I admit I don't know much about caves, though, so feel free to tell me if green caves are a common occurrence!



Damn, that was close.



I'll keep that in mind.



Hot damn! This is the first accessory we've encountered, and it's a pretty nice one, to boot - the Scarlet Jewel increases Upper Defense by 20%. It can't replace a full set of armor, but it'll do for now.



I'm starting to think coming in here was a bad idea.



Terra: This cave won't hold much longer. We're almost at the summit! Don't stop till we're there!
*Ruby nods.*

Guess we'll keep pressing onwards, then.



More goodies! The Power Water permanently increases a character's Attack power by 4. This is going straight to Ruby, of course.

♪♪Brand of the Holy Knuckles (Ver. 2)♪♪

Nothin' to see here, just Terra's victory pose.



♪♪Perilous Mountain♪♪

Terra: *turns to the right* Look! The exit is right there!



Wow, she wasn't kidding.



Uh... okay. Unexpected, but we'll deal with it.



Can do! Let's rock!





♪♪Brand of the Holy Knuckles (Ver. 2)♪♪

Golem here is the first miniboss. There aren't very many of those in the game, but they aren't to be underestimated.



Its main attack is to uppercut the shit out of you two or three times. It may not seem like much, but I'm using Spirit here; this could've easily added up to 80 or so damage.



It can take a beating, too; this is after using a Spirit-extended combo, and it barely fazed it.



Your best bet is to use Spirit for extended combos, to keep up the pressure as much as possible. Again, don't worry about healing; Terra will take care of it anytime your health gets low.



You'll know you're close when your attacks start knocking down the Golem; this is the game's way of telling you you've almost won.



It's around this time that Golem starts using Jagged Earth.



As you might imagine, it does a ton of damage. It could've been worse, though; just imagine that attack hitting Ruby.





As long as you pile on the damage, you should be able to defeat Golem pretty quickly; it took maybe ten turns when I fought him, for instance. That item is pretty sweet too; the Guardian Water acts like Power Water, but for Defense.

Damn, that was close. (I have no idea what the message in the top means; it only pops up during this sequence, and as far as I can tell the game runs just fine.)

Terra: Ruby! That was close! You did well! I envy you -- you are always so full of energy!
*Ruby turns to face Terra.*
Terra: I'm sorry, but I'm a little fatigued. Let me rest here awhile.





♪♪The Ra-Seru Speak♪♪

*Ruby goes to sit down a short distance from Terra, keeping an eye on the wolf as she does so.*
Terra: Ruby, we've been together for a long time. Even in this horrible environment, you've grown into a fine woman. I'm very proud of you.



Terra: You may not know, but wolves like me do not normally speak. I am actually a Seru, a Seru attached to the head of this old wolf.
*Ruby turns to face Terra.*
Terra: I, Terra, who saved you from the Mist when you were all alone and raised you. I'm a Seru!
*Ruby stands up.*
Terra: But don't confuse me with those common Seru, driven mad by the Mist. I may look like a Seru but I am a Ra-Seru! I am impervious to the Mist. I wanted to watch over you, until you were a little older. But that's not possible anymore. This wolf has reached the end of its life. The wolf will die soon. And if I stay attached to it, I will die with it.
*Ruby runs to Terra and shakes her head in disbelief.*



Terra: With the power of the Genesis Tree at the summit, I can transfer from the wolf to you! Then I won't have to leave you all alone. That is my plan.
*The wolf gets up.*
Terra: I have decided to stay by your side until you find your real parents! Now, this mean old wolf is fully rested! On to the summit!



♪♪Perilous Mountain♪♪

Well that certainly cleared a few things up. I guess Ruby has a goal after reaching the Genesis Tree after all!



Continuing onwards, there's a short cave passage. The Phoenix in this chest is the revival item of the game; use it and you can revive knocked-out characters. On a related note, I like that you have to use the entire goddamn Phoenix instead of a few of its feathers like most other RPGs.



♪♪Brand of the Holy Knuckles (Ver. 2)♪♪

It's around this point where we start encountering three enemies at a time. Just be a little extra cautious and you'll make it out fine.



Save point! It's probably a good idea to use it.

*The music ends as Ruby and Terra walk outside. The sound of the wind can be heard.*



Terra: This brings back memories! This is the tree through which I came to the human world. I was sleeping inside this tree, when suddenly...
*Ruby walks closer to Terra, who is facing the Genesis Tree.*
Terra: I was awakened by the sound of a baby's cry. That baby was you, Ruby. Your body was too small for me to attach myself to you.
*Terra turns to face Ruby.*
Terra: So instead, I chose this wolf.*pause* Now that's enough talk of the past! Come on, Ruby!
*Ruby hesitates.*



*Ruby begins walking towards Terra.*

♪♪An Unpredictable Happening♪♪



Zeto: I will show them the consequences of helping those pitiful humans...



Zeto: Had you submitted peacefully to the Mist and the Seru, your suffering would have ended!



Zeto: Attack, Caruban! Rip them to shreds with your fangs!



Call me crazy...







But this doesn't seem good.

Terra: You, Seru slave of evil! Be smart and go away now! This world is for human beings of compassion!
Zeto: Caruban! Kill them!





That was Caruban attacking Terra so fast I mis-timed the screenshot. I think we're screwed...



Terra: My strength... unfortunately... is nearly... depleted...



Zeto: Caruban! This girl is yours. Do with her as you please! Ah ha ha ha!



*The camera fades out, then back in to the sight of Blue running up the mountain.*



♪♪Perilous Mountain♪♪



Meta: Our friends must be there!

Not that we know them yet, but we'd better hurry, regardless.

Unlike Ruby's section of the mountain, Blue's path has a number of side trails to take. He also has to jump up the path at certain points; this is done merely by walking forward.



The Speed Elixir increases... well, Speed, for one battle. You can either save this for a desparate situation or sell it for some quick cash. Either way is fine, really, but I tend to sell the Elixirs.



Continuing onwards, we find ourselves in a cave. Heading west is the way forward, but going east has its own benefits.





It's kind of a long way...



But it's worth it. The Blue Fist is quite an improvement over the Survival Knife, and it matches its name to yours, which is nothing if not pretty cool.



♪♪Brand of the Holy Knuckles (Ver. 2)♪♪

As for the enemies, you'll run into the same monsters Ruby did.



You'll want to absorb Vera as soon as possible. It shouldn't be too tough - I did it on my first try. I don't know if this is true or not, but you seem to be more likely to absorb a Seru if you just barely defeat it - a Tornado Flame will do nicely. As for what Vera does?





Seru Magic: Vera

Like I said earlier, it's your first healing spell. Right now it only heals slightly more than a Healing Leaf, but it restores more HP at higher levels, and can even learn to cure various status effects. It's pretty cheap to use, too - only 6 MP.



The enemies here give a pretty good amount of experience; you should at least reach level 6 by the time you get to the top.



♪♪Perilous Mountain♪♪

This acts like a Healing Leaf, but for every character. Pretty handy in a pinch.



We're almost at the top - we just need to head through this short tunnel. Try to come out of this tunnel with full health, but don't waste too much MP or items doing it.



Looks like we made it just in time!



Terra: Meta... It's Meta! Meta is here. Meta, I'm glad you found yourself a nice child, too. Blue? His name is Blue? Blue, please, help this child... Help Ruby.

No need to tell me twice.







Boss Battle 1: Caruban
♪♪Attack♪♪

Caruban only has a little over 1,000 HP, but you don't want to drag out the fight if you can avoid it - Caruban is downright nasty for a first boss, so you need to end the fight before you start running out of items.



To that end, it would be a good idea to have Blue use Gimard a few times - no more than one or two uses, though, or you won't have enough MP to use Vera for healing. Why not just use Vera exclusively, you ask?





That's why - even at level 2, Gimard is going to deal the most damage in this fight, and two uses will take care of two-fifths of Caruban's HP in as many turns. If you came into the battle with more MP than I did, feel free to use Gimard a few more times - but save the rest for Vera once you get to 20 MP or so.



As for Ruby, you'll want her alternating between using Spirit and dealing as much damage as possible. If you can, try stringing Arts together; you can do this by linking the last input for the first Art and the first input for the next Art.

Take Bird Step, for example; its combination is ↓ ↓ ↓ ↑. Since ↑ is the first input of Lizard Tail (↑ ↓ ↑), you can link the two moves together without inputting the full combination for both Arts. If this is kind of confusing, you'll get a better idea of what I'm talking about in the video.



As for Caruban itself, like I said earlier, it's pretty brutal for a first boss. It can hit you with its wings...



Bite you...



Or just claw the shit out of you.



Worse yet, it can string these attacks together, up to a total of four attacks in one turn (though it won't do four attacks all the time). If you aren't using Spirit at the time or the targeted character isn't blocking Caruban's attacks, you're going to take a lot of damage.





You'll know you're close to winning once your attacks start knocking Caruban down. Don't let this make you overconfident, however...

Because Caruban can still ruin your day. There doesn't seem to be a pattern to when Caruban uses Fire Breath, but thankfully it never uses it twice in a row. When it happens, do your best to heal your allies - don't be afraid to use the Healing Bloom you found earlier if it comes close to killing you.





For the most part, Blue should be sticking to healing duty, while Ruby piles on the damage. Even at level 2, Vera restores more HP than any of the healing items you have at this point, so don't be afraid to use it. That's not to say you should use it exclusively, however - sometimes Vera won't be fast enough, and you'll need to use an item for quick healing.





Just keep on the offensive and heal when needed, and Caruban will go down before too long. As a victory prize, you'll get a Healing Bloom to replace the one you no doubt used during the fight.



♪♪The Quiet Tree of Creation♪♪







Terra: take me to the Genesis Tree.









Well, you heard the dude.





Meta: Awaken, Genesis Tree! Recall the instant that the heavens and earth were born!

♪♪The Awakening of the Tree of Creation♪♪

Awesome! That's two-for-two so far - guess we aren't so bad at this whole Genesis Tree revival business, huh?



Terra: *Gets up* This power is just what I needed! Alright, Ruby, let's go!







♪♪The Ra-Seru Speak♪♪





Hot damn! Now maybe this journey won't be so tough. More help is always welcome!



Oh, kickass. Now we can beat dudes up faster!





Terra: The wolf is a proud animal. She's going to find a place where she can die alone. So, Blue...





Come on, how can we say no? We'll need all the help we can get to revive the Genesis Trees, and we'll accomplish much more if we stick together.

♪♪A New Party Member♪♪



Meta: I'm sure the people freed from the Mist are waiting for you.

Sounds like a plan...



For next time, that is. I'll be taking more combinations from you guys in the meantime, but the next update won't be very combat-focused, so I can't promise anything. See you then!

Next time: Drake Castle, and maybe a few other places...

Try Camstudio.

I would, but the last time I did I couldn't even get it to work, and it crashed whenever I tried recording anything. It's why I went to Fraps in the first place. =/

Edit: Oh, the boss video is uploaded, if any of you were wondering. It doesn't look as bad as I thought it did, either!

Man, that "build-up to reviving a Genesis Tree" music + "reviving a Genesis Tree" music makes me nostalgia so hard. Hearing it always brought such a wonderful sense of victory.

Yeah, they were all locked in those cages, weren't they? How are they supposed to get out without you?

As someone who's lost a couple of animal friends, this kind of scene always gets to me. Chunky PS1 graphics and all.

*sigh* Goddamn it. I would've updated this like two days ago, but my sleeping habits have been really weird lately. I've got the next update finished, however, and I'll post it first thing tomorrow morning. Sorry to keep you guys waiting! I have got to learn proper time management, jesus christ. =/

And by "first thing tomorrow morning" I meant "in the late afternoon". I totally didn't sleep in on accident or anything. Nope! I think I need an alarm clock...

But enough of all that; it's time to update again.

Chapter 5: Biron Monastery is the Best Monastery

It's about time we returned to Drake Castle, so let's do that.



♪♪Peaceful Path)♪♪

Man, I love this track; it's another one of my favorites. The peacefulness of it is a great contrast to the general caution of "Perilous Mountain".

But anyway, we're still pretty banged up from the Caruban fight, so it'd be wise to use an item or two.



Luckily, I didn't have to use the Healing Bloom earlier, so I'm totally doing so now.



The trip down isn't too difficult; now that the Mist is gone from this area, you'll run into maybe one or two battles. You don't have to worry about any Vera, either; they're gone with the Mist (though it certainly isn't the last time we'll see them).



See? Already there.

*A short trip to Drake Castle later...*



♪♪The Lively Imperial Palace♪♪



Yeah, we'll be fine. That's just the people of this castle; they're probably chatting up a storm after not being able to do much of anything for the past ten years.

Blue: Ha ha ha! Don't worry!
Ruby: *nods* Alright! I won't worry since you're here, Blue.
*Blue and Ruby walk down the stairs and through the Mountain Gate to find a person who is probably the king and several guards waiting for them.*



Yep, that was totally us. We're kind of awesome like that.

*Blue nods.*
Kingly-looking dude: So what we heard was true! One look at the shining Seru on your arms and I understand how this miracle occurred. I am Drake III, king of this castle. You have my deepest gratitude.



Er, Ruby? What are you...?

Ruby: Um, can I ask you something?
King Drake: What is it, young lady?



King Drake: What? Oh!
*A guard walks off, presumably to do guardly things.*
King Drake: Ha, ha, ha! Young lady, this is... this is called a moustache.



King Drake: *while rubbing said facial hair* Oh? Actually I am quite fond of my moustache. *turns to Blue* Ha, ha, ha! So be it. Now I wish to hear more about what happened. Young travelers, come over here.
*The three walk off as the screen fades to black. The screen fades back in inside King Drake's throne room as Blue and Ruby finish their tale.*



King Drake: So Blue was heading to Biron Monastery in search of Mei's mother. My order to open the water gate must have caused you great hardship! I am sorry for that. But here, take this. It is the Water Key.
*King Drake hands the Water Key to a guard, who in turn hands it to Blue. I guess he couldn't be bothered to do it himself?*



Awesome! We can use this on... something. Actually, I think there was a dam close by...



King Drake: I know that you both are on separate quests. But I ask you to remember the horrible Mist that covers the earth. And that those like you, chosen by the Ra-Seru, have a holy mission. I have not the authority to command you. {But you're a king...} You have saved Rim Elm and Drake Castle from the Mist... But the suffering will not truly end until the whole world is free of the Mist!



There seem to be quite a few things Terra neglected to tell you in that cave...

Ruby: Are you talking about dinner?
King Drake: No, ha ha ha! That's "supper." "Suffer" means to be very sad.
Ruby: Suffering is when sad things happen... No! I don't want any more sad things to happen! I hate suffering! Blue, that means we have to destroy the Mist! That will stop the suffering.
King Drake: Yes, I agree with Ruby. Ha, ha, ha!
*Blue nods.*
King Drake: I will detain you no further. Please continue on your journey. I will pray hard for a safe trip. Good luck!

Glad that's over with. Time to loot this place! (And talk to everyone, of course.)



But first, free healing!

♪♪Noa's Dreams♪♪

And some more weird dreams, I guess.



Ruby, my dear... Mother can't hear you very well. Mother can't see you very well.



Ruby, I want to see you. It's so dark here... Freezing cold... I'm... in the deepest Mist...
Ruby: The Mist! You're in the deepest Mist?



*Ruby runs toward the light, but it gets farther away and dimmer the more she runs.*



Assuming that dream has any truth to it, it doesn't exactly do us any good - "in the deepest Mist" could be anywhere. Let's just explore the castle some more for now.

The treasure here isn't notable, except for one item:



which permanently increases the user's Speed by 4. But we'll save this for now. Time to talk to everyone!



Like this lady. We can fess up and say we did, and she'll ask us to keep its contents a secret. If we pretend we didn't, however, she'll just say that it would be embarassing if anyone were to know what it said.



This guy talks about a monk from Biron who taught the people here a few Arts before leaving. He left his book behind, though, meaning free Arts for us!



Blue already learned the Art described in the book (Charging Scorch), and we can't read the rest of it just yet, but Ruby learns Swan Driver, so it isn't a total wash. I'll demonstrate it in a minute.

In the throne room
King Drake: The Mist still flows all over the world. Be very, very careful.
Old woman: Blue, did you come here from Rim Elm? {Yes...} I went there once when I was young. It's such a beautiful village.
Guard: Blue, before you leave, speak with the people of the castle. They all want to talk to you. {What the hell do you think I'm doing, man?}
Guard: If you are tired, you may rest in this bedroom.

In the side rooms
Old woman: Before the Mist came here, I heard a rumor... that the Mist comes from devices called Mist Generators located all over the world. {Who would build such a thing? On the other hand, this totally helps our quest. Thanks, random old lady!}
Old woman: When King Drake first told us of his plan to submit to the Seru... To be honest, I was very afraid. But now I am glad that I trusted in King Drake.
Scientist: I am the Court Professor. I am like a scientist with a castle. It is my job to advise King Drake. I was the one who devised the plan to wear Seru and surrender to the Mist.
Science guy: There are indeed many legends of the Genesis Trees. That they are not of the human world, that they will flower when the world is in danger... Come to think of it, I have also heard that the Genesis Trees are cradles of holy Seru.
Man of science: We did determine that the Genesis Tree at Mt. Rikuroa has the power to drive back the Mist. Unfortunately, however, there is no guarantee that the power will last forever. The only real solution is to destroy its source, the Mist Generator in the northeast. {Northeast, you say? How close northeast, I wonder?}
Science person: Blue, the creature that attacked Rim Elm said his name was Zeto. Hm. The name sounds familiar, but I can't remember where I heard it.
Old woman: By the king's orders, I threw all the Seru in the castle into the river.
Man: Now that the Mist is gone, I suppose it's safe for us to use Seru again, but still... After being possessed by them for over ten years, I just can't bring myself to wear one.
Man: Yeah, we got rid of that cage!

Some hallway
Boy: Blue, Ruby! Go downstairs and go outside the castle! There are a lot of stores there now. {Duly noted.}
Boy: We've been surrounded by the Mist for ten years. I'm glad I didn't grow up without even knowing it.
In the dining hall
Old woman: There's nothing wrong with a man who enjoys his food, but they are eating just too much.
Man: Well, to be human means to be hungry, right?
Man: I'm starving. Famished!
Man: I'm gonna make up for those years I didn't eat anything!

In the Gate rooms
Girl: Uh-huh! You can see Mt. Rikuroa and the Genesis Tree from here!
Guard: This exit leads to Mt. Rikuroa. Blue, are you going to retrieve something you forgot there?
Old woman: Drake Castle was saved by the immaculate power of Mt. Rikuroa's Genesis Tree.
Old woman: We put on Seru, got in the dungeon, then the Mist came. That's all I remember. I remember almost nothing about that period. It was like a long nightmare.
Yet another old woman: When I was a Seru monster, it was almost like being dead. But you liberated us from death. You gave us a fresh start on life.
Scientist: Do you know about the warrior-monks of Biron? {Yep. On our way to visit, actually!} I'm impressed. So young, yet so knowledgeable.
Just how many old women are here, anyways?: Do the Ra-Seru really have the power to awaken the Genesis Trees? {Yep, they totally do. I've tested that twice now.} Well then, you might like to know that Drake Kingdom has four Genesis Trees, they say. One in Rim Elm. Another at Mt. Rikuroa. The other two are in the forest north of the Biron Monastery. {Sweet, free directions!}

In the entrance hall
Guard: How long were we asleep? I can't tell if it was a long time or a brief time.
Scientist: To the east, beyond the river by the castle, is Biron Monastery. Many warrior-monks are there!
Old woman: Do you know Lezam, the one who went to tell Rim Elm about the Mist? {That guy? Yeah, we met him on the way here.} What? He's still alive?! So he's at Hunter's Springs! Thank goodness. I was so worried about him.
Old woman: You guys go the Water Key from the King, right? Then use it to close the water gate outside.

Okay, that's everyone in the castle. To the marketplace outside!





Ruby: Blue, look! Look at all the people!



Well, I suppose that would be a lot of people to someone who's lived in a cave their whole life.

Ruby: They all look so happy. Now I feel kind of happy, too.





To be honest, they'd probably be happy talking to anyone at all after being monsters for so long. You're probably good.

Blue: Sure, they'll be happy to.
Ruby: Yeah, you're right. I know they would! I'll see you later. I'm going!
*Ruby runs off to talk to everyone.*

We can't buy anything at the moment, so we might as well follow Ruby.



Arms Dealer: Young lady, that's a Fighting Robe. It doesn't just look good. It'll protect those pretty arms of yours. {...Arms? Kind of a weird thing to focus on-- You know what? Let's not go down that road...}
Ruby: Wow! That's great! A "Fighting Robe"! How cool!
Arms Dealer: Ha, ha, ha! What a charming young lady! I'll give you a good price.
Ruby: OK!
*Ruby takes the Robe and starts to walk away.*
Amrs Dealer: Hey, hey! Wait a minute! You gotta pay for that! Money! You know, money!
Ruby: *turns to face the shop-keep* Money? What's that? What's money?

Amusingly enough, either of the first two choices could count as a good explanation. We'll go with the first choice, though.

Ruby: Oh. I don't really get it. I guess I'm just a goofy kid. Oh well. {Wait, how old are you? And how old is Blue, for that matter? Something to look up later, I suppose...} OK! Here, you can have this back!
*Ruby puts the robe back on the counter, then starts to walk away again.*
Arms Dealer: Y-You don't want it?
Ruby: Nope! I still don't know about money, so I don't want it! Oh! I want to go over there! Let's talk to those people!

Sure thing, I guess...

Ruby: Yeah, uh-huh.



Ruby: Yeah... Uh-huh. Thank you, Mister Supply Dealer! I won't forget! *turns to Blue* OK, now I'm going to give you a test about supplies.



Well, Healing Leaves are the basic item, and Life Water is a stat-booster, so it's a matter of picking either the first or second choice. I'll go with the top option.

Ruby: Right! Wow, you're smart, Blue! Alright, next question.



Well geez, that's easy - it lets us warp out of dungeons.

Ruby: That's right! Wow, Blue! You know everything! Alright, then, last question!



Hm... Mei, Lezam, and Tetsu are all people we've met before, so I'm guessing Wats.

Ruby: Wow, Blue! How did you know that? You're so incredible! Very good! You know everything, don't you, Blue? Here, take this.



Kickass! I'm not entirely sure where you got these, but I'll take what I can get.

Ruby: Yeah! Oh! I want to go over there! Let's talk to those people!

Might as well.



Again, the first two options are equally valid answers. Let's pick the second option this time.

Ruby: Really? Well, let's stay here if we go someplace far away and get tired. Yeah! *faces the innkeeper, then Blue* Thanks, Blue! I had fun talking to everyone! I'm done. Now let's go someplace you want to go, Blue!

Okay, now we can buy stuff!



The arms dealer has a bunch of stuff for Ruby. If you sell the Speed Elixir and Survival Knife you obtained earlier, you'll have more than enough to fully equip her. Don't bother getting the Nail Glove; we'll shortly find a much better weapon, and the Electric Shoes give a pretty decent Attack boost on their own.



The item shop has a couple accessories; the Target Chain you can see in the screenshot, while the Defender Chain increases the rate of successful blocks. Neither are essential, but it wouldn't be a waste buying them if you happen to have the cash. We're good on healing items for now, but we'll need a few Antidotes for the upcoming dungeon.

Let's have one last talking session with the people of the marketplace before leaving...

Man: Are you planning to go to Biron Monastery now? {Yep. Was just about to head off, actually.} Biron Monastery might be enveloped in the Mist. Ra-Seru might not be enough. Before you go, buy weapons and armor to protect yourself and things to heal your bodies. {Way ahead of you, man.}
Scientist dude: To resume business upon recovering from the nightmare of the Mist... That family sure is tough.
Old woman: With the Mist gone, the merchants who were hiding in the castle reopened their businesses here.
Man: Hey! Anyone know where my wallet went?!
Woman: The stores reopened, but all they have are weapons, armor -- things for fighting and killing! I want fresh meat and vegetables. Hmmf! {Lady, if you want that stuff, you gotta go kill it first. Maybe even the vegetables.}
Guard: Be careful! The world is full of weird Seru monsters!
Old woman: To get to the Sebucus Islands in the north, head northeast and follow the river upstream. {Duly noted.}
Guard: You can use the Water Key King Drake gave you to stop the river's flow. Cross the river and go east along the northern mountains. You'll come to Biron Monastery.
Boy: Hooray, hooray! A customer! Daddy, we have a customer!
Man: Umm, you should be able to stay in the back room of the castle for free. But if you want to spend your money, I won't stop you.

Okay, enough shenanigans. It's time we set off for the Monastery!



♪♪Barren Fields of Mist♪♪

Sure enough, the Water Gate is right next to the castle.



Hell yeah, I do.









The way forward has been opened - and we even get a bonus out of it in the form of that chest.

This teaches Ruby her first Hyper Art, which I'll demonstrate in a minute.



Wow, that's an awful lot of Mist - we can't even see in that direction. That's probably where the Mist Generator is; it wouldn't hurt to check.



♪♪Buma in the Mist♪♪



Meta: Just beyond this valley is the Mist Generator!
*Ruby turns from the Mist.*
Terra: The Mist produced by the Mist Generator spreads out into the areas beyond the valley.



Terra: Ruby, we should slow down!
*Ruby angrily shakes her head.*
Meta: The Mist here is too thick! My power is almost too weak to keep us from succumbing to the Mist!
Terra: If we only had a little more Genesis Tree power! Just a little more!
Ruby: Blue, let's find another Genesis Tree! If we find it... Then we could pass through here and destroy the Mist Generator!

This only gives us more incentive to head to Biron Monastery, since the two in the forest north of it are rather close to this valley.



We'll just take this and be on our way.



♪♪Brand of the Holy Knuckles♪♪

The enemies encountered in this area are rather bizarre, to say the least. The Frog likes to alternate between jump-kicking you and attacking with its tongue, the latter of which can potentially poison you. The Lippian is... slightly weirder. It can use its arms to hit you once for moderate damage, or use the Kiss of Death, which either paralyzes or causes 1 damage to the target. It's also accompanied by a really creepy voice clip; you'll see that in the videos.

Speaking of which...





Ruby demonstrates Frost Breath

Frost Breath, while more expensive than Tornado Flame, also deals twice as many hits, and looks cooler (pun unintended). It's good to use against short and floating enemies alike, as long as you've got the AP for it.



Ruby demonstrates Swan Driver

Swan Driver, meanwhile, can best be described as a flying double-roundhouse. It's pretty awesome.



The other new enemy, the Ostrich, is... kinda lame compared to the other two. It only either hits you with its beak or hindquarters (yes, it looks as ridiculous as it sounds). They do have slightly more health than the other enemies here, though.



♪♪Barren Fields of Mist♪♪

The Monastery isn't far - only a short distance from the entrance to the valley. You'll get into maybe two battles.



That's not good - the Mist flows freely in here.



Oh, I see - the switch must control the fans, which are connected to the door somehow. A little unorthodox, but it works, I guess.

Monk: I rush out thinking that some Seru are up to no good, and I find human visitors! Well, then, come with me! I'll introduce you to everyone at Biron.

Sounds promising!



♪♪We Are the Biran Priests♪♪

I'm going to interrupt the LP for a second to mention something - the whole time this conversation plays out, the monks in the background are grunting in the middle of their training. I can't describe the cheesy glory of the monks' cry of "HUNH, HUNH, HUNH" properly, so I recorded a video of it in action.

The Biron monks

It doesn't last long, but that particular voice sample - and, indeed, this whole location in general - is one of the most enduring memories I have of this game. It's a silly thing to remember, but I love it anyway. Back to your regularly scheduled LP!

Monk: I never thought anyone would come here while I was guarding the gate. You really surprised me! Wait! They're in the middle of training. When it's over, I'll introduce you to Master Zopu.



Oh man, this guy. This guy right here. He's another reason I like this place so much.



I mean, look at him- that moustache is quite possibly the manliest facial hair on the PS1. Don't get me started on those eyebrows of his, either.

Zopu: That's enough training for now. You may now attend to your individual tasks.



*The monks give a cry of "HUNH" and go about their business.*



Zopu: Now, then. Let me get a good look at you.
*Blue and Ruby look at each other for a moment before coming closer. When they stop, Ruby pounds her fist to her chest.*
Ruby: I am Ruby! With me here is Blue! Good to meet you, old man!



"Master Teacher"? However redundant, something tells me he's not a guy to be taken lightly. Or taken to parties.

Zopu: Ha, ha, ha! This young lady means no ill will. Master Teacher, stand aside.
Master Teacher: Yes, sir!
*Master Teacher leaves the room, presumably to engage in monk-related activities.*
Zopu: I see. Blue and Ruby. How do you do? I am Zopu.
*Zopu studies the two for a few seconds.*
Zopu: Hmm. Your eyes are keen. And you have Seru... Alright, then! We welcome you here. Tonight, we shall have a party in your honor. Until then, you may make yourselves at home inside the monastery. {Whatever your feelings toward the teachings of Biron, you can't deny that their followers are a bunch of rad motherfuckers. Throwing a party for total strangers? Sign me the hell up!}
*Zopu leaves the room. The man in black and red robes walks closer and looks at the two for a moment.*



Yep, they're the genuine article.

*Blue nods.*
Songi: So that's a Seru! I hear they give their wearer great strength.
Ruby: That's right.
Songi: Ha, ha, ha! I want one of those Seru! I am Songi. Pleased to meet you. If you have an extra Seru, then let me have it! Ha, ha, ha, ha! {Er... Ra-Seru aren't exactly common. And don't the teachings of Biron forbid the use of Seru, anyway? Something tells me not to trust this guy...}
*Songi leaves the room.*
Ruby: What a weirdo. {Couldn't have said it better myself.}

And with that, we're free to explore the Monastery at our leisure. Let's do just that - maybe Mei's mother is here, or someone might know of her whereabouts if she isn't.

In the main hall
Monk: Yes, sir! One of the teachings of Biron is: "Strength begets love."
Monk: Yes, sir! Even before the Mist came, we renounced any use of the power of the Seru.
Gate guard: I'm so glad there are still people in the outside world! I can't wait for tonight. {You and me both, man.}
Monk: Yes, sir! In Biron Monastery there are also women who have escaped the Mist. Right now, those women are probably working in the upstairs kitchen and other parts of the Monastery.
Monk: Yes, sir! With training, humans can transcend the powers of the Seru!



Thanks, vaguely-Buddhist statue!





♪♪Mei♪♪



Of course I do; Mei's practically the spitting image of you.

Blue: Uh... Maya?
Maya: That's right! I'm Maya from Rim Elm! Blue, what a good memory! I'm impressed. You were still so young when I left the village.
*Ruby walks over and stands beside Blue.*
Maya: When Master Zopu told me a youth called Blue had come, I hurried here. I knew it was you! I knew it right away! You look just like Val when he was young. {Blue hair included?} I'm so happy. Because of the Mist, I thought I would never see anyone from Rim Elm again. You two are amazing! You must have had a hard time getting here. Oh, I almost forgot!



Maya: So, I have to go now. There are so many things I want to ask you about, but that will have to wait until tonight. I want you to tell me about yourself, and about your village. Bye for now. I'll see you later!
*Maya runs off.*
♪♪We Are the Biran Priests♪♪
Ruby: So that's Maya, the one you've been looking for. Hmm. What energy she has. I couldn't get a word in. {Irony!} But I'm so glad I finally met her! So glad she's well!

Ah, hell, we didn't get to tell her about Juno. Something tells me the party won't be that enjoyable...

In the statue room



Monk: Ah, from Rim Elm! Tetsu, a fellow disciple, lives there. Is he well? / Snowdrift Cave? Before the Seru, the monks of Biron were all over the world, and sent back much information. But I have never heard of Snowdrift Cave before. Please excuse my ignorance.
Monk: Yes, sir! The fresh, clean air that flows from the mouth of Biron has kept us safe.
Monk: Yes, sir! This is Biron, the god of this monastery.
Monk: Yes, sir! Master Zopu said to show our guests proper hospitality.

In the upstairs hallway
Monk: Yes, sir! If you're looking for Maya, I believe she's in this room. But this is a woman's bedroom. Men are forbidden. You may not enter!



Ruby: What are you looking at? I'm a woman! I'm a woman, so I can go in!
Monk: I don't mind you, Ruby, but Blue will have to wait here.
*The monk opens the door and stands aside.*
Ruby: OK! I'm going to talk to Maya.
♪♪Mei♪♪
*Ruby runs into the bedroom and shuts the door behind her. Blue and the monk stand there for several seconds.*
Monk: Umm... It sounds pretty lively in there. I can hear a lot of laughter. *pause* Maya is very loving and hardworking. She's such a cheerful person. The monks of Biron think of her like a mother. The Biron Monastery doesn't allow Seru or women... I guess the Mist has changed that rule.
*Ruby abruptly bursts out of the door.*
♪♪We Are the Biran Priests♪♪
Ruby: I like Maya too! She's a good person!

Nah, it's cool. It's a bit soon to be worrying about that bottom option right now, anyway.

Blue: No, I'm happy for you!
Ruby: Yeah! I've heard a lot of stories from Maya! But right now, Maya is too busy preparing for the party. She sends you her regards.

I hope that's the last interruption until we're done talking to everybody.

In the upstairs hallway (again)
Monk: Yes, sir! Biron Monastery is protected from the Mist outside by strong gates.
Monk: Yes, sir! Don't tell anyone I said this, but Master Teacher is the strongest here. Songi is Number Two. Well, that's the rumor, anyway.
Monk: Yes, sir! Are you looking for Maya? {Already found her, dude.} I see. Well then, why don't you go to the kitchen? I believe there are people selling things there, too. And if you are tired... you may sleep in the bedroom on the left as you face that way.
Monk: Yes, sir! Master Zopu always says that the Age of Hope is close at hand.

In the kitchen
Monk: Yes, sir! This is the dining room.
Woman: We took shelter here when the Mist attacked.
Woman: Well, this place is full of good people. But sometimes I hate having to say "Yes, sir" and "Yes, ma'am" all the time.
Woman: I hear that tonight there will be a party to welcome you. I'm going to use all my skills to cook up a feast for you.
Woman: You may not give this much thought... But, Songi resents Master Teacher very much. Master Zopu and Maya are very distressed by this, too.

In the training room (behind the upstairs hallway)
Monk: Yes, sir! Training is sometimes hard for me since I'm not talented like Master Teacher or Songi.
Monk: Yes, sir! This is Master Zopu's room. Go on in.
Monk: Yes, sir! This door is to East Voz Forest. I can't let you pass without Master Zopu's permission.
Monk: Yes, sir! This door is to West Voz Forest. I can't let you pass without Master Zopu's permission.
Master Teacher: What on earth could Master Zopu be thinking? To allow Seru like you onto the sacred soil of Biron. {Geez, guy, chill out a little.}
Songi: The old-fashioned teachings of Biron may forbid the wearing of Seru... But if I can become stronger quickly, then you better believe I'm going to wear one! If you see an extra Seru, then let me know... in secret! When I get one, then watch out, Master Teacher! Ha, ha, ha, ha! {Yyyyyyep. Definitely keeping an eye on you.}

In Master Zopu's room



Kin: Ever since then, he has hated the Seru. {Well that explains a bit.}
Zopu: You said your names were Blue and Ruby, right? Did you listen to what the people of Biron had to say? {Thouroughly!} I see. Well, then... Before the party begins, tell me what you heard. Tell me what you heard about Seru and the Mist.
*The scene fades out. It fades in to a few hours later, with the party well underway. Blue is finishing relating his story of the attack on Rim Elm to Maya.*



♪♪Night Requiem♪♪

Maya: Juno, he... He was killed by a Seru.
*Maya stands still for a few moments, her head in her hands, unable to speak. After a while, she turns away.*
Maya: So Blue, you came all the way here for Mei's sake.
*Maya becomes silent once more. Ruby steps forward.*
Ruby: Maya, don't cry! Cheer up! It's not like you to cry like that!
*Maya turns to Ruby, her head no longer in her hands.*
Maya: That's sweet of you to try to cheer me up. Still... It's all so frustrating that I couldn't be by Juno's side. I loved him so! All along I thought I would see him again someday, and now it's too late. I'm so sad! *pause* I'm sorry, Blue. I'm sorry, Ruby. I'm sorry for crying like this.
Ruby: Maya, come to Rim Elm with us! Mei is there!
Maya: I'm sorry, Ruby, I just want to be alone now. I need time alone to think.
*Maya leaves the room, on the verge of tears. Blue and Ruby stand silently for several seconds.*
Ruby: When Maya's sad it makes me sad, too. Sad and lonely, Blue.

Well damn, that was depressing. Maybe talking to the party-goers will help liven up the atmosphere.



♪♪Biron Party♪♪

At least the music's festive.

Gate guard: Hey! It's nighttime, so I can't let you pass.
Monk: Yes, sir! Maya is very cheerful and merry when she speaks, but sometimes she seems sad and lost in thought. Perhaps she is thinking of her homeland of Rim Elm.
Woman: Songi is always watching and studying Master Teacher. To think that the two of them were once such good friends. Maya is very concerned, and often comes to me to talk about it.
Woman: This is supposed to be a party, but everyone is so serious. {Par for the course when the party-goers are monks, I suppose.}
Monk: Yes, sir! If you're looking for Maya, she went into the shrine earlier, looking downcast.
Monk: Yes, sir! Everyone is talking about the great deeds of you two. {Psh, whatever. We've only revived two Genesis Trees and kicked a chimera's ass... Okay, I guess that's kinda awesome.}
Woman: Maya would always tell me about the family she left back in Rim Elm. But on the other hand... At Biron, Master Teacher and Songi are like sons to Maya.
Monk who is either training or dancing: Yes, sir! This is such a fun party. When the Mist clears, we'll have even more fun.
Master Teacher: Yes, sir! *thinks for a moment* Those are Seru on your arms, aren't they? {I thought we had established this...} I don't like it. I despise those creatures and those who depend on them! {That's incredibly shortsighted, dude. I mean, I get where you're coming from, but still.}
Songi: A Seru that's not affected by the Mist... What I wouldn't do for one! They say that a Ra-Seru sleeps inside something called the Genesis Tree. With a Seru like that, I'd show Master Teacher who's really boss. Ha, ha, ha! Anyway, don't you mind me. {I am minding the hell out of you just for that statement. Watch yourself, man!}



Oh hey, I was wondering where he was.

Zopu: I just saw Maya walking around crying. You didn't tell me before but I want you to be honest with me now. Blue, Ruby.



I guess the cat's out of the bag now... no sense denying it.

*Blue nods.*
Zopu: Such forthrightness! Ha, ha, ha! That is good. Young people should be frank. I, too, shall speak frankly. I have a favor to ask of you. I have heard that you used that Ra-Seru to revive the Genesis Trees in Rim Elm and in Mt. Rikuroa. You rid those places of the accursed Mist. Actually, there are two Genesis Trees near the Biron Monastery.



Man, you don't even have to ask. We are all over that shit like frat boys on a six-pack.

*Blue nods.*
Zopu: Ah, I thank you both! I must tell everyone immediately.



*The camera zooms out to show everyone in the room turn to Zopu.*
Zopu: They have just agreed to revive the Genesis Trees!
"Hooray!"
"Hooray for Blue!"
"A toast to Ruby!"
*The party-goers give a few fist pumps and the like before settling down.*
Zopu: Once revived, the Genesis Trees will rid us of the horrible Mist! This is our chance! We must all help these brave visitors. The Genesis Trees are in separate forests north of here, in West and East Voz.



Hmm... West Voz is closer to the Mist Generator, so it's probably more dangerous. On the other hand, there are a ton of monks and only two of us, so they could probably hold down the fort while we go to East Voz. Of course, we're much better equipped to handle the Mist than these guys are, so we should probably go to West Voz.

Zopu: West Voz Forest. I see. Yes, that forest is closer to the origin of the Mist. Yes, that is a wise decision. *turns to the room at large* Master Teacher! Master Teacher, are you there?



Zopu: Master Teacher, you will accompany these two to West Voz Forest!
Master Teacher: B-But...
Zopu: Master Teacher! An elder's order is the same as a command from Biron!
Master Teacher: Y-Yes sir! *gives a monk-salute*
*Songi steps forward, eager to speak.*
Songi: Master Zopu! Have you forgotten me?
Zopu: What is it, Songi?
Songi: *steps forward some more* If Master Teacher is going to West Voz Forest, then I will go to East Voz Forest! I will go there to make sure that the Genesis Tree is safe. {Oh god, that is such a bad idea...}
Zopu: Songi, it is so unusual for you to volunteer like this! But that is good! I will give you monks to command. I am counting on you, Songi!
Songi: *monk-salutes* Yes, sir!
*Zopu once more turns to the party at large.*
Zopu: Now, then. Night has fallen. Let the party end.
*The screen fades out and the music ends.*





Songi: I'll get the Ra-Seru from the Genesis Tree in East Voz Forest! Ha, ha, ha...! I can't stop laughing!

Ladies and gentlemen, our second major villain (if you couldn't already tell). He may not seem like much now, but just you wait. Just you fucking wait...



♪♪We Are the Biran Priests♪♪

In the meantime, this update is almost over!

Songi: Thank you! Leave everything to me!
*Songi gives a monk-salute, and he and the monks under his command run out of the room in single file.*
Zopu: May Biron also bless Master Teacher and our two visitors on their journey to West Voz!
*Master Teacher gives a monk-salute, and the three begin walking out of the room.*



*Blue nods. Ruby runs in front of Master Teacher.*



Master Teacher: What?
Ruby: "Master Teacher" is a weird name.
Master Teacher: *crosses his arms* It's not a name, it's a title!
Ruby: So "Master Teacher" isn't your name? Then what is your name?
Master Teacher: Since you are not Biron monks and need not call me Master Teacher, I will tell you. My name is...

Well, folks, this is our final party member. Vote what to name him and give me some combos to try out with him - a max of four inputs per combo. This update was pretty talky, but the next one will have a lot more action. See you then!

Next time: West Voz Forest!

Teacher. His real name is Teacher. He just makes everyone call him "Master" because he's a prick.

I dunno, we have a theme, I don't see any good reason to stop. Brown is the obvious choice, but maybe someone can come up with a more elegant name.

Since we've already have Blue and Ruby (red) I say we should call him Green.

I must say this LP makes me slightly regret never having played the game - it does look fairly interesting.

↓↑←←

Bruno - it fits his appearance, and it matches the naming theme so far.

So, as a general question(s) to the audience: How am I doing so far? What do you like about the LP? What don't you like about it (besides the game itself, to those of you who feel that way)? Is there anything I could be improving on? Any and all feedback is appreciated. Thank you in advance!